ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Private Investigation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

LJK INVESTIGATIONS LLC

Private Investigator

Addison, TX · On-site

$23 - $27/hr

Manage and prioritize investigation assignments to meet deadlines * Use appropriate software and tools to increase efficiency and accuracy * Complete other administrative duties as assigned ...

Guardian Angel Investigations

Be Seen First

Entry Level (Open-Source Intelligence) Investigator

Reading, PA · Remote

$100 - $750/wk

We are a fully licensed Private Investigation firm operating in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, and Maryland. Our service has been tailored from many years of experience and successful ...

Guardian Angel Investigations

Be Seen First

Entry Level (Open-Source Intelligence) Investigator

Reading, PA · Remote

$100 - $750/wk

We are a fully licensed Private Investigation firm operating in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, and Maryland. Our service has been tailored from many years of experience and successful ...

PhotoFax

Private Investigator PT/SUB

Lake Oswego, OR · On-site

$22 - $27/hr

Private Investigator- PT PhotoFax, Inc., a nationwide private detective agency, is currently hiring experienced surveillance investigators for Sub-Contractor opportunities in the Portland, OR area.

PhotoFax

Private Investigator PT/SUB

Lake Oswego, OR · On-site

$23 - $29.25/hr

Private Investigator- PT PhotoFax, Inc., a nationwide private detective agency, is currently hiring experienced surveillance investigators for Sub-Contractor opportunities in the Portland, OR area.

J Holdings

Private Investigator

Houston, TX

$19.25 - $24.75/hr

As a Private Investigator you will have extensive scope of work for independent action and decision, in the performance of highly confidential and sensitive investigations into allegations of ...

PhotoFax, Inc.

Private Investigator PT/SUB

Lake Oswego, OR

$23 - $29.25/hr

Private Investigator- PT PhotoFax, Inc., a nationwide private detective agency, is currently hiring experienced surveillance investigators for Sub-Contractor opportunities in the Portland, OR area.

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsPrivate Investigation Jobs

Private Investigation information

See salary details

$15

$26

$57

How much do private investigation jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for private investigation in the United States is $26.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.39 and $27.40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Are private investigators in high demand?

Private investigators are in steady demand due to ongoing needs for surveillance, background checks, and fraud investigations. Employment growth is expected to be average, with success often relying on licensing, investigative skills, and familiarity with legal procedures.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a private investigator?

To thrive as a Private Investigator, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and knowledge of laws and investigative techniques, often supported by a relevant license or law enforcement background. Familiarity with surveillance equipment, digital research tools, and case management software is typically required. Excellent communication, discretion, and persistence are vital soft skills for building trust and conducting effective investigations. These skills and qualities are crucial for gathering credible evidence, ensuring legal compliance, and successfully resolving cases.

What does a private investigator do?

Private investigators, also known as private detectives, are professionals hired to gather information, conduct surveillance, and solve cases that require discretion and expertise. They may work on cases involving missing persons, background checks, infidelity, fraud, or legal investigations. Private investigators use a combination of research, interviews, surveillance, and technology to uncover facts and provide clients with accurate information. Often, they work independently or for private investigation firms and must adhere to legal and ethical standards.

How do private investigators get their job?

Private investigators typically find employment through licensing requirements, networking, and applying directly to investigative agencies or firms. They often need relevant skills such as surveillance, research, and report writing, and may require certification or licensing depending on the jurisdiction.

What are some common challenges private investigators face when gathering information for clients?

Private investigators often encounter challenges such as limited access to certain records, uncooperative witnesses, and the need to operate discreetly to avoid detection. Additionally, balancing ethical and legal boundaries is crucial, as violating privacy laws can have serious consequences. Effective investigators must also manage varying client expectations and work irregular hours, including nights and weekends, to conduct surveillance or interviews.

How much money does a private investigation make?

Private investigators typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, with salaries varying based on experience, location, and specialization. Some investigators working independently or with specialized skills can earn higher incomes, especially with a strong client base and effective marketing.

What is the difference between Private Investigation vs Private Security Officer?

AspectPrivate InvestigationPrivate Security Officer
Required CredentialsLicensing, background check, sometimes specialized trainingLicensing or certification varies by state, basic training often required
Work EnvironmentConducting investigations, surveillance, interviewsPatrolling premises, monitoring security systems
Employer & Industry UsagePrivate firms, attorneys, corporationsSecurity companies, retail stores, events

Private Investigation and Private Security Officers both require licensing and often similar certifications. However, private investigators focus on gathering information, conducting surveillance, and solving cases, while private security officers primarily protect property and ensure safety. Their work environments and employer types overlap but serve different primary functions.

More about Private Investigation jobs
What cities are hiring for Private Investigation jobs? Cities with the most Private Investigation job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Private Investigation jobs? The most popular types of Private Investigation jobs are:
What states have the most Private Investigation jobs? States with the most job openings for Private Investigation jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Private Investigation jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Private Investigation jobs are:
Private Investigation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Private Investigation job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,726 per year, or $26.8 per hour.

Private Investigator

Advantage Surveillance LLC

Manchester, NH • Remote

$20 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

For the past 28 years, Advantage Investigations has been the Nation’s only insurance defense investigation firm that invests in the operational capabilities necessary to produce consistent, high-quality results—ultimately helping our clients "See What’s True."

With over 200+ licensed private investigators Nationwide, Advantage uses strategic planning and technology to give our clients greater clarity on a claimant's daily activities. Providing Covert Surveillance, Claims Investigations, Net-Sweep Investigations, Remote Controlled Surveillance, and more, we’re able to save our clients time and money on insurance fraud cases.

Advantage Investigations is seeking a Full Time Private Investigator in the Manchester, NH & surrounding areas. The qualified candidate will be responsible for conducting covert surveillance, investigating daily activities, obtaining video evidence, and providing a clear report of all activities for our operations team along with basic claims investigations. As a private investigator, you will be provided with a comprehensive training program, door to door pay, fuel card, vehicle and phone allowance, top-of-the-line equipment, as well as other generous benefits. This position requires daily travel within the investigator’s area/territory.
Duties & Responsibilities:

  • Conducting surveillance including covert, stationery, and mobile
  • Conducting surveillance throughout their home state and surrounding states
  • Recording subject activity on a video recording device
  • Conducting alive and well checks, locates, basic scene investigations, paint sample analysis, EDR, and RCS deployments/retrievals
  • Preparing and completing a written report of observations
  • Uploading Video Evidence and a surveillance report

Qualifications & Requirements:

  • Current NH Private Investigator License preferred
  • Private Investigator Licenses required – Licensing differs between states
  • Previous experience related to surveillance/claims investigations is preferred
  • Access to a reliable, suitable surveillance vehicle for day-to-day use
  • Valid Driver’s License
  • Ability to provide MVR (driving record)
  • Willingness to travel throughout home state and surrounding states for work
  • Varying weekly work schedule includes weekend and holiday availability
  • Good oral and written communication skills
  • Self-motivated, ability to work independently
  • Meet state mandated requirements to obtain and maintain a Private Investigator license multiple states
  • Must pass a Drug Screen

Compensation:
Investigators are paid door to door at an hourly rate commensurate with experience, within $20.00 to $25.00 an hour. Employees are paid on a bi-weekly basis.

Company Benefits:

  • Door to Door hourly pay
  • Fuel Card provided
  • Monthly Vehicle Allowance
  • Monthly Cell Phone Allowance
  • Equipment Provided
  • Medical, Dental, Vision, and Disability insurance
  • Life Insurance and other supplemental options
  • Paid Lodging (when applicable), and per diem pay when out of town
  • 401(k) – with match
  • 2 weeks of PTO (paid time off)
  • Parental Leave

Advantage Investigations is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.